Presentation adds retention specialist

August 06, 2007|From staff reports

Will be based at Presentation's Lakota Campus in Eagle Butte Kirk Beyer has accepted the position of career and learning institute manager and retention specialist for Presentation College. This is a new position designed to provide additional services for students at PC's Lakota Campus in Eagle Butte. "The purpose of creating this position is to provide assistance to students making the transition to higher education and to help successfully achieve their academic goals," said Beyer. "Any student interested in going to college that has questions about preparing to enroll or is already enrolled and needs help is welcome to visit with me." Beyer will work with prospective students, offering ACT test preparation and academic assessment and advising. His services will be available to all students regardless of enrollment or intent to enroll at PC. Beyer will be available to meet with students at the Lakota Campus and will work to establish programs at area high schools as well. "The creation of this position at the Lakota Campus will foster and enhance the opportunities of all students on the Cheyenne River Reservation wanting to go to college," said Michelle Metzinger, vice president of academics and associated services. Students will be able to participate in assessments to gauge strengths and areas in need of improvement. From these assessments, Beyer can advise students on resources available to improve ACT performance or remediation courses. Beyer will offer tutoring services and establish student tutoring services and study groups to assist students enrolled in courses at PC's Lakota Campus. He will also provide assistance for students on time management, study skills, career placement and preparing resumes. When appropriate, referrals will be made to other professional service providers in the community. "College does require preparation and commitment," said Beyer. "The earlier you begin preparing, the better off you will be. But if you have concerns about college, you don't have to feel alone. There are resources at Presentation College to help you." Beyer graduated from Dakota State University in Madison with a bachelor's degree in business administration. He holds a master's in technology in education from the University of South Dakota in Vermillion.